BEREAVED carers met for a cuppa and chat at Inverclyde’s first reminiscence cafe.

People gathered at Inverclyde Carers’ Centre to remember and celebrate the lives of their loved ones.

The cafe was launched to tie in with the To Absent Friends Festival.

Donna Martin, carer support worker said: “The centre offers support for current carers and we support former carers for up to a year.

“The first cafe opened as part of the Absent Friends Festival since 2014 but this is our first cafe in Inverclyde.

“It’s about celebrating the lives of loved ones they have cared for — it’s quite a positive experience.”

Ray Craig, 55, of Gourock, who is a carer for her mum and sister, went along to remember her brother Tommy, who sadly passed away in March, aged 60.

She said: “I think it’s good for us to get together. 

“Some of us have known each other over the years and there are some people we have never met before.

“It’s good to have happy memories of the people you have lost. They are still part of your life.”

It is hoped that the group will meet once a month on a Friday between 10.30am and 12.30pm.

For more information about the group call 735180.